Photography Classes 2026
Learn how to use your camera and take better photos through an action oriented class structure in both the classroom and environment.
We are offering a variety of classes, Beginning photography, Advanced Landscape photography, Lighting 1 , Creative lighting, and portrait photography.
After a few years of teaching at the Indianapolis Art Center and Roberts Camera, I’ve realized one thing: you don’t learn photography from a textbook or sitting at a table—you learn it with a camera in your hand. The classes we’re offering are hands on experiential where you’ll be learning though action in the beautiful environments of Natural Valley Ranch, Brownsburg, IN.
I’m moving away from the classroom and into the field. Whether we’re in the studio with models and lights or out in the natural environment, my philosophy is simple: Action over observation.
Why learn with me?
30+ Years of Experience: From the chemistry of the 1990s darkroom to today’s high-tech digital sensors.
Real-World Success: I’ve run a photography business for 20 years that paid the bills and raised a family. I don't just know the "how," I know the "why."
Immediate Results: We use the "immediate feedback" of digital tech to master light, composition, and settings in real-time and real environments.
I attended four 2-hour beginner camera classes with instructor John Crowe in August 2025. I had purchased a Canon EOS R6 Mark ll and was terribly intimidated by the numerous menus, manual focus, aperture, ISO, and shutter settings. With John"s guidance and patience, I was able to grasp a better understanding of my camera's vast capabilities. I especially appreciated the weekly homework assignments which I found to be challenging. John was quick to reply and critique my submissions. His suggestions on how to improve the quality of my photographs was greatly appreciated. I was determined to "get it right!" Each week, I took a new lense or a new flash attachment and other gadgets (filters) which I had purchased. He took the time to explain the benefits of each and told me how to utilize them. Being a former teacher, I recognized the full worth of his teaching style and expertise. I truly enjoyed my experience with John.
~Debbie Peschke
I’ve Taken two of John’s Digital Photography classes, and I am thankful that I did. He created an amazing curriculum that fostered creativity and experimentation. Through a blend of hands on instruction and examination of others work, my skills as a photographer grew. John was patient and accomodating, and made his course a safe and creative environment for us all. ~J.Woodcock
Whether you want to capture better family memories or launch a professional business, I’ll teach you to think like a photographer. Let’s stop talking and start shooting.
